Celtic tonight take on Man City in an American friendly. 120 years ago, there was a strange – and historic – family coincidence that linked the two clubs…
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- Willie Maley
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- Tom Maley
The name Maley is famously associated with Celtic, and has strong Man City connections too. Willie Maley is Celtic’s longest serving manager, and a player in the earliest days. His brother, Tom also appeared in the Bhoys’ first game, and scored the club’s first hat-trick.
In 1897, Willie Maley was appointed Celtic’s first manager (officially the Secretary-Manager). Six years later – season 1903-04 – was a big moment in Celtic’s history. August 1903 saw them change strips, going from stripes to hoops.
On 16 April 1904, the Bhoys played Rangers in the Scottish Cup Final. This was the first final played at the new (current) Hampden Park. Celtic quickly found themselves two goals down – but they came back to win 3-2 (their first hooped final win). A Jimmy Quinn hat-trick made him the hero of the day.
This final is also notable as the match that created the ‘Old Firm’ title. Before the game, the Scottish Referee carried an cartoon saying “Patronise the Old Firm.” This referred to Celtic and Rangers’ business ties.
After playing, Tom Maley worked in different jobs, including as a teacher and owning a post office. He also became a manager, notably at Man City, where he was appointed in 1902. His brother Willie had actually turned out as a guest for City in 1896.
On 23 April 1904 – playing at Crystal Palace – Man City met Bolton in the FA Cup Final. Under Tom’s management, they won 1-0 to claim their first major trophy. The winning goal was scored by the renowned City player Billy Meredith. In 1925 he had a testimonial against joint Celtic and Rangers team.
In the space of one week in April 1904, two brothers had won Scotland and England’s national cups. This is a feat that has not (as far as I know) been repeated.
Tonight it’s a battle of the champions as the Scottish and English title holders face off. It’s an exciting prospect, almost as good as a “Battle of the cup finalists”…
Matthew Marr
Follow Matthew on Twitter @hailhailhistory
Matthew’s debut Celtic book titled ‘The Bould Bhoys – Glory to their name’ was published by Celtic Star Books last year and is available to order HERE. This brilliant book is also available on Amazon Kindle for just £3.49 and includes all photo sections that appear in the hardback edition.
